2024 has been a challenging year for many illustrators, but there is hope that 2025 will bring new enthusiasm to the sector. AI may be a useful tool, but it can never replace the true creativity and personal touch that clients crave. Despite a rocky year for the creative industries as a whole, illustration agencies are still receiving commissions and looking for new talent to meet the demands of clients worldwide.
One key aspect that agencies are looking for in the New Year is artists with a consistent style and a unique point of view. Having a clear visual language that conveys a message is essential for standing out in a competitive market. Agencies like Illozoo and Brilliant Artists value illustrators who have distilled their inspirations into a cohesive and confident style.
Another important trend is the push for diversity in illustration. Agencies like Handsome Frank are committed to diversifying the field and representing a wide range of communities in visual media. Clients are also increasingly seeking to include diverse perspectives in their campaigns, making it important for agencies to prioritize diversity when seeking new talent.
Overall, despite the challenges of the past year, illustration agencies remain optimistic and eager to work with talented artists who can bring fresh perspectives and unique styles to the industry. „It can sometimes be difficult to find the perfect profile for every situation, but this is an effective way to achieve genuine results, share real stories, and positively impact society.“
Written by Raxenne Maniquiz, Handsome Frank
Leo Teixiera, Norte
3. Revealing the Artist’s Touch
In contrast to artificial intelligence and CGI-generated work, illustration agents are now more interested in pieces that show the artist’s hand and unique voice. Sarah Beetson, talent scout for IllustrationX in Australia, emphasizes the importance of incorporating hand-drawn elements into digital processes to create work that stands out and lasts beyond trends.
„I always seek out work with handmade elements, as digital trends can become repetitive,“ says Sarah. „Art created with real materials by the artist adds a unique touch that resonates with viewers emotionally and stands the test of time.“
By embracing analog techniques and showcasing the creative process, artists can capture the attention of clients and add value to their work in a way that artificial intelligence cannot match.
Written by Clement Thoby, Brilliant Artists
By Kate Birch, IllustrationX
4. Bringing Art into the Physical World
In line with the trend towards handmade work, agencies are seeking artists who can translate their creations into the physical world through murals, installations, and traditional media. Bice Piana, a senior creative producer at Pocko, highlights the importance of artists who can work in real spaces and utilize unique techniques to create captivating installations.
Tom at Handsome Frank also emphasizes the significance of showcasing the artist’s personal touch and process to create work that is both unique and enriching.
By Michela Picchi, Pocko
5. Animation skills
Today, almost every brief illustration agencies receive includes a request for animation, making illustrators with animation skills highly sought after. Adding motion in GIF format can make an illustration more attractive for online and social media use.
„If you’re hesitant to learn animation skills, consider collaborating with animators who can help bring your work to life,“ suggests Sam from Brilliant Artists. Collaboration between animators and illustrators can lead to new creative possibilities and enhance the impact of the artwork.
While having animation skills is valuable, maintaining a unique visual style is essential for artists. Agencies can pair illustrators with animators to achieve the desired results for clients without compromising the artist’s style.
„Animation has evolved significantly in the past two decades, becoming more integrated into various projects,“ explains Bruno from Norte. „Matching illustrated assets with animated ones has become a common practice, and different production structures can be adapted to each project’s requirements.“
By Milagros Pico, Brilliant Artists
Animation by Andrei Mallmann, design by Lucas Rampazzo, Norte.
6. Not the latest trend
Illustration agencies are not necessarily seeking artists working in trendy styles. Instead, they value artists whose work will remain relevant beyond current trends. It’s important for illustrators to develop their own unique visual voice rather than following fleeting trends.
„Avoid chasing trends and focus on creating art that reflects your personal inspiration and style,“ advises Sarah from IllustrationX. „Authenticity and passion in your work will always shine through.“
Agencies are interested in illustrators working in areas like children’s illustration, live event illustration, and those utilizing natural media and textures. While AI replication of art is not favored, using AI creatively to produce experimental and surreal pieces can be intriguing to some agencies.
By Fran Labuschagne, IllustrationX
7. A great attitude
Aside from creative talent, illustrators must also demonstrate professionalism and a positive attitude to succeed in the industry. Meeting deadlines, staying within budget, and maintaining open communication are essential qualities that agencies and clients look for in illustrators.
„Having a positive attitude, being reliable, and communicating effectively are crucial for success as an illustrator,“ emphasizes Mohamed from Illozoo. „Talent is important, but professionalism and a good attitude can make or break a partnership.“